If you are among the patients who wear dentures, there is a possibility that you have at some point encountered damage to the material from which the denture is made. Dentures are most often made of acrylic (a type of high-quality plastic) or a combination of metal and acrylic. Over the years, dentures are exposed to chewing forces, and it is therefore possible that some type of damage may occur over time. The good news is that in most cases, such damage can be repaired.
What Types of Denture Damage Can Occur?
Crack in the Acrylic
This most often occurs as a result of the denture falling. This is a type of damage that patients often ignore because the denture still functions, and the crack does not interfere with chewing. However, if you notice a crack in your denture, you should see your dentist for repair. A crack can be repaired quickly and easily, and this will prevent it from spreading further or even causing a piece of the denture to break off completely.
Denture Breakage
Just like with a crack, the denture can break into two or more parts as a result of falling or prolonged use when the denture is no longer adequate. Over a long period of time, the condition of the gums and jawbone changes, and the old denture can no longer fit well in your mouth. This results in improper transfer of chewing forces onto the gums, leading to fractures. A break in the middle is the most common consequence of such changes. If your denture breaks, visit your dentist, who can repair it using an impression of your jaw. Of course, there are extreme situations where, after many years of use, the denture can no longer be repaired.
Source: https://a-ceramics.co.uk/denture-repairs/
Broken Metal Clasp
This part of the denture serves to attach it to the remaining teeth. After prolonged use, the material becomes fatigued, and the clasp breaks. In such cases, it is not necessary to keep the broken piece. Take the denture to your dentist, and the metal clasp will be completely replaced. If, after some time, you notice that the clasp no longer fits tightly to the tooth, you should also visit your dentist so the clasp can be tightened, allowing the denture to fit firmly again in your mouth.
Broken Tooth
The plastic teeth in the denture can break off if you bite into something hard while chewing. In this case, it is best to keep the tooth that has fallen out of the denture, as it can be reattached in the same place. If you did not manage to save the broken tooth, your dentist will replace it with a new one.
Denture Relining – When the Denture Loses Stability
In addition to external factors that may damage a denture, over time it may lose its stability because the gums change shape as the years go by. When these changes are not too extensive, it is possible to perform what is called denture relining. This procedure adds a new layer of acrylic to the inner surface of the denture, restoring proper stability.
Why Regular Check-Ups Are Important
Even if you do not have any problems while wearing your dentures, it is still important to visit your dentist once a year for a check-up. Everything about how to properly maintain your denture hygiene can be read here.
